5 Scenic Train Rides That Were More Hype Than View + 11 That Delivered Epic Window Moments
There’s something undeniably romantic about train travel—the rhythmic clatter of the tracks, the slow reveal of landscapes through panoramic windows, and that cozy feeling of watching the world roll by. But let’s be honest: not every train ride is the cinematic journey it’s cracked up to be.
Some routes are hyped up with dreamy photos and glowing reviews, yet end up being, well… a little underwhelming. On the flip side, there are rides that completely surprise you, turning a simple commute into a soul-stirring adventure.
If you’re mapping out future travels or just craving a little wanderlust inspiration, you’re in the right seat. So, all aboard—we’re about to explore the highs (and lows) of scenic train travel!
1. Glacier Express, Switzerland
Have you ever gazed upon the majestic Swiss Alps from the comfort of a train? The Glacier Express offers just that, as it winds through snowy peaks and verdant valleys.
It’s a journey where every turn reveals a scene more breathtaking than the last. The slow pace of the train allows you to savor each view, turning a simple ride into an unforgettable experience.
Feel the magic of Switzerland unfold before your eyes. It’s not just a train ride; it’s a moving postcard that captures the essence of alpine beauty.
2. Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
Imagine gliding through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, where every glance out the window offers lush forests and towering peaks. The Rocky Mountaineer is not just a train ride; it’s a visual feast for the soul.
The scenery is ever-changing, from shimmering lakes to rugged mountain faces, each more stunning than the last. You can almost feel the crisp mountain air as the train winds its way through this natural wonderland.
Explore a landscape so grand it feels like stepping into a painting. These views are the kind that linger in memory.
3. The Ghan, Australia (more hype than view)
When I think of iconic train journeys, The Ghan instantly comes to mind. Yet, the reality can be less thrilling than imagined. Traversing the Australian Outback, the views are expansive but often monotonous.
The endless stretches of red earth and sparse vegetation can feel repetitive. However, it is an integral part of Australia’s vast landscape.
While it might not be as visually diverse, the historical significance and sense of adventure still offer a unique travel experience. The Ghan might not dazzle visually, but it captures the spirit of exploration.
4. Tren a las Nubes, Argentina
How thrilling would it be to ride the ‘Train to the Clouds’? In Argentina, the Tren a las Nubes takes you on an exhilarating journey to dizzying altitudes.
The landscapes are stark yet beautiful, with rugged mountains and clear blue skies stretching into infinity. It’s a ride that’s as much about the adventure as it is about the vistas. Embrace the sense of wonder as you ascend to one of the highest railways in the world.
Though sparse, the scenery’s grandeur is undeniable, inviting reflection and awe with every mile covered.
5. Bernina Express, Switzerland
Did you ever dream of journeying through snow-capped mountains and picturesque villages in one seamless ride? The Bernina Express offers it all. It’s an enthralling journey through Switzerland’s most stunning landscapes, where every side of the train offers a new perspective.
From lush green pastures to glacial rivers, the variety of scenery is simply breathtaking. Feel the enchanting beauty of the Alps unfold as you traverse this UNESCO World Heritage route.
This isn’t just sightseeing; it’s an immersive journey into nature’s magnificence.
6. California Zephyr, USA
Have you ever wanted to experience America’s diverse landscapes in one trip? The California Zephyr brings them all to your window. This legendary route takes you through the Sierra Nevada mountains, across vast deserts, and into bustling cities.
Each segment offers its own distinctive charm, making every moment feel like a new chapter of adventure. Whether it’s the dramatic cliffs or serene rivers, there’s always something to captivate your senses.
The ride is a symphony of sights, harmonizing the rugged and the refined, the wild and the civilized.
7. Maharajas’ Express, India (more hype than view)
When the opulence of a luxury train ride meets the vibrant landscapes of India, you get the Maharajas’ Express. However, the views outside may not always match the grandeur within.
While the interior exudes royalty, the passing scenery can sometimes be less enchanting, occasionally marred by urban sprawl.
Nonetheless, it’s an experience rich in cultural depth and historical significance. Even if the views don’t always dazzle, the journey itself remains a regal adventure through India’s diverse tapestry.
8. Flam Railway, Norway
If dramatic fjords and lush valleys are your idea of paradise, the Flam Railway is your ticket to it. This Norwegian gem offers spectacular views that are both immediate and overwhelming in their beauty.
The journey is a tapestry of nature’s finest work, where cascading waterfalls and steep mountains greet you at every turn. It’s an experience that invites you to lose yourself in the splendor of Norway’s landscapes.
Feel the serenity wash over you as the train meanders through this breathtaking terrain, a true testament to nature’s artistry.
9. Eastern & Oriental Express, Southeast Asia
Where luxury meets exotic landscapes, the Eastern & Oriental Express is a journey like no other. Traversing the heart of Southeast Asia, it’s a visual and sensory delight.
The train cuts through vibrant jungles and expansive rice paddies, offering glimpses into the region’s lush beauty. Each scene is a snapshot of a culture deeply connected to its environment.
With every mile, the essence of Southeast Asia unfolds, painting a picture of its rich heritage and stunning natural vistas.
10. Reunification Express, Vietnam (more hype than view)
Imagine a journey that promises the heart of Vietnam but delivers more of its bustling side. The Reunification Express offers a taste of the country’s vibrant cities and serene rural areas.
Though the landscapes can be captivating, the urban views are often more prominent. Nevertheless, it’s a cultural tapestry that reflects Vietnam’s rapid development.
While it may not always offer sweeping vistas, the glimpse into Vietnam’s life and history is enriching.
11. Cinque Terre Coastal Train, Italy
How about a train ride where every window frames a postcard-perfect view? The Cinque Terre Coastal Train delivers exactly that, whisking you along Italy’s stunning Ligurian coast.
Imagine vibrant villages clinging to cliffs, the azure Mediterranean Sea shimmering in the sunlight. It’s an artist’s palette come to life.
The journey is a feast for the eyes, each stretch revealing a new vista more beautiful than the last. Feel the romance and charm of Italy envelop you as you glide between these enchanting coastal gems.
12. Jacobite Steam Train, Scotland
Are you ready to step into a storybook adventure? The Jacobite Steam Train, often associated with the Hogwarts Express, offers a journey through Scotland’s enchanting Highlands.
Crossing the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, the train unveils a land of rolling hills and mystical lochs. It’s not just a ride; it’s a step back in time, where every chug of the steam engine echoes with history.
Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of the Scottish landscape, a place where magic feels possible.
13. Coastal Pacific, New Zealand
How often do you get to travel with the ocean as your companion? The Coastal Pacific in New Zealand offers a journey where land and sea dance in harmony.
Each bend reveals rugged coastlines, with the Pacific Ocean stretching endlessly beyond. It’s a symphony of blue and green, a portrait of nature’s power and beauty.
This journey is an invitation to embrace the tranquil yet dramatic surroundings that New Zealand is famed for.
14. Belmond Andean Explorer, Peru
Did you ever dream of traversing the Andes in style? The Belmond Andean Explorer offers just that, combining luxury with breathtaking Peruvian landscapes.
From the comfort of your seat, watch as the majestic Andes unfold, each peak and valley offering a story of its own.
The journey is one of contrasts, from lush valleys to arid plains, each more captivating than the last. It’s a travel experience that pairs elegance with adventure, taking you deep into Peru’s heart.
15. Indian Pacific, Australia (more hype than view)
When the lure of crossing a continent by rail calls, the Indian Pacific answers. However, the reality might not be as picturesque as one imagines.
The journey offers vast, open landscapes that can sometimes feel desolate, with stretches of desert and scrubland. While it’s a feat of engineering and endurance, the scenery can be underwhelming.
Despite this, the experience of traversing Australia from coast to coast is one of adventure and discovery, even if the views are less than epic.
16. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (more hype than view)
Where glamour meets nostalgia, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express promises an opulent journey through Europe. Yet, the views might not always match the extravagance within.
Passing through classic European landscapes, the scenery can be charming but not always breathtaking. The true allure lies in the train itself, a rolling piece of history.
While the outside world may not always dazzle, the interior’s elegance ensures a memorable ride.